.jpg)
20 hours ago
1
Article content
TORONTO, Nov. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Stress, conflict, and economic strain are taking a growing toll on Ontario families, and for many men, reaching out for help can feel impossible. A new provincial service aims to change that.
THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY
Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.
- Exclusive articles from Barbara Shecter, Joe O'Connor, Gabriel Friedman, and others.
- Daily content from Financial Times, the world's leading global business publication.
- Unlimited online access to read articles from Financial Post, National Post and 15 news sites across Canada with one account.
- National Post ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.
- Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword.
SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES
Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.
- Exclusive articles from Barbara Shecter, Joe O'Connor, Gabriel Friedman and others.
- Daily content from Financial Times, the world's leading global business publication.
- Unlimited online access to read articles from Financial Post, National Post and 15 news sites across Canada with one account.
- National Post ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.
- Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword.
REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES
Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.
- Access articles from across Canada with one account.
- Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.
- Enjoy additional articles per month.
- Get email updates from your favourite authors.
THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK.
Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.
- Access articles from across Canada with one account
- Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments
- Enjoy additional articles per month
- Get email updates from your favourite authors
Sign In or Create an Account
or
Article content
Men’s Counselling Link, officially launching today through 211 Ontario and Family Service Ontario (FSO), offers men across Ontario free, confidential, and judgment-free counselling. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the service connects men to professional counsellors who can help them navigate anger, relationship challenges, or harmful behaviour before it escalates into crisis.
Article content
Article content
Article content
“We know men want help, but there is still a lot of shame around asking for it. They need a place that makes that ask easy,” says Susan Somogyi, CEO of Family Service Ontario. “Men’s Counselling Link removes the barriers, and you can talk to someone right away.”
Article content
By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.
Article content
By dialling 2-1-1, men can speak immediately with a trained clinician or be referred to ongoing virtual or in-person counselling through FSO agencies across Ontario.
Article content
Men can also be connected to other supports like food assistance, employment programs, or income aid — addressing the daily pressures that can contribute to conflict or intimate partner violence.
Article content
“This service meets men where they are,” says Karen Milligan, Executive Director of Ontario 211 Services. “Whether someone is in crisis or simply overwhelmed, we can connect them to compassionate, professional support any time of day.”
Article content
The launch of Men’s Counselling Link comes at a pivotal time as demand for mental health and family services continues to climb. Funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services and the Government of Canada under the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the initiative takes a prevention-first approach.
Article content
Article content
“Men don’t have to be in crisis to reach out. They just need to want to do better for themselves and their families,” says Somogyi.
Article content
Men can dial 2-1-1 any time to connect with Men’s Counselling Link.
Article content
Quotes:
Article content
- “Gender-based violence has no place in Ontario, which is why our government is investing in services like the new Men’s Counselling Link helpline to break the cycle of violent behaviour and protect women, children and families. The helpline will provide critical support, so I’m incredibly grateful for the work of community partners like 211 Ontario and Family Service Ontario. By taking action together, collaboratively, we can build safer and healthier communities.” — Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, Ontario Government
- “Everyone deserves to feel safe and supported in their communities to reach their full potential. Services like Men’s Counselling Link, delivered by 211 Ontario and Family Service Ontario, are helping people get the support they need before a crisis occurs. By investing in community partners and strengthening local services, our government is addressing the root causes of violence and helping individuals and families build healthier relationships and stronger, safer communities across Ontario.” — Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, Ontario Government
English (US)